Through Aug. 24: 'Linear Thinking' at SMoCA

“25,004 Steps to Sandra/Mom (Mesa)” is by Angela Ellsworth. Diagonal lines help give a sense of movement, vertical lines suggest height and horizontal lines show stability. Part of the exhibit 'Linear Thinking: Selections from the Permanent Collection' at Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art.(Photo: Tim Lanterman/SMoCA Handout)

"Linear Thinking: Selections from the Permanent Collection" highlights the use of line.

The line has many uses in the art world, from suggesting ideas or leading eyes in a certain direction through a composition. Artists use diagonal lines to portray motion, vertical lines for height and horizontal lines for stability.

"Linear Thinking" shows how the line is important, with works by artists including photographer Mark Klett, painter Deb Sokolow and sculptor George Rickey.

"Four Lines Oblique VI" by George Rickey was made from stainless steel. Like other pieces in the show, it’s from the museum’s permanent collection of "Linear Thinking." Tim Lanterman/Handout

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'Linear Thinking: Selections from the Permanent Collection': Through Sunday, Aug. 24. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, 7374 E. Second St. $7 general admission, $5 for students, free for museum members and ages 15 and younger. 480-874-4666, smoca.org.